Start the Day with Blueberry Quinoa "Oatmeal"

This rich breakfast option offers "complete protein" without meat.

I once was a vegetarian—kind of. I didn’t go full veggie, but I cut down my meat consumption to only two servings a week. I knew this change could limit my amino acid intake, so I needed to be more careful with what I ate.

Luckily, the magical food quinoa exists. It’s one of the few plants with high amounts of all essential amino acids—that is, “complete protein”—which meant that I didn’t have to eat bean burritos every day. And, this grain even works for breakfast, if you know how to prepare it.

This dish has more texture than traditional oatmeal, with a nutty aroma and sweet aftertaste. The heavy cream makes it a rich treat, but if you're looking for a lighter variation, you could easily swap in regular milk. Whether you’re a vegetarian, pseudo-vegetarian, or omnivore, you can enjoy this meal and rest assured you’re getting the complete protein your body needs.

How to make it:1. In a saucepan, pour in the quinoa and cream. Start at low heat and gradually bring the heat up to medium. By then, the mixture should start boiling. It's important to increase the heat slowly, or else the cream could curdle.2. When the cream has started to boil, reduce to a simmer and cover. Let cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. At the 10 minute mark stir in the blueberries and brown sugar. The quinoa should turn translucent and the white germ should be visible when done. Top with granola and serve. Serves 2.

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